These Xtina Songs Teach You A Lot About Adulthood

I can fondly remember popping my Bubble Yum whilst blasting "Genie In A Bottle" during the late '90s. As pop stars go, Christina Aguilera is a formidable force when it comes to dispensing some of the most addictive tracks imaginable. While many of us were just beginning to ditch our Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers when the platinum-coifed singer graced the Billboard charts, many of the lessons in Aguilera songs may have gone unnoticed. If you're like me, the oft strange trajectory of adulthood comes with bouts of nostalgic reveries — many of those which warrant the accompaniment of a late '90s and early 2000s soundtrack. Obviously, popular Aguilera songs are a go-to during these junctures.

Listening to the "Your Body" crooner's most popular hits as an adult can enlighten us to many of the mature topics Aguilera tackled from the start. Whether you feel plagued by the trials that can come with modern dating culture, need a reminder on the importance of a support system, or simply become confounded by the prospects of interior design — there is a popular Aguilera song for that. For the sake of nostalgia and growing pains, let's take a look at the lessons adults learn when listening to nine of Aguilera's most popular tracks.

1. "Genie In A Bottle" Speaks To The Trials Of Dating

While I was busy trying to perfect the wax-on, wax-off movements of the genie dance, I didn't originally realize how deftly Aguilera's late '90s hit spoke to the trials of dating. Between the grating back-and-forth of texting, swiping right, and general navigation through the world of modern dating culture, one thing is certain: Dating as an adult can be a headache. It can be difficult to find someone who can rub you the right way, but a little bit of selectivity can make things worth your while.

2. "Come On Over (All I Want Is You)" Teaches Us About The Glory Of Interior Design

If you're like me, you can't re-listen to "Come On Over (All I Want Is You)" without remembering the confection of color that was displayed throughout the video. As an adult, I need to take on the arduous task of decorating. With this track — and above music video — on hand, I can at least glean some inspiration while trolling the halls of IKEA.

3. "What a Girl Wants" Teaches Us To Never Settle

I remember popping my gum and skipping down the street without a care in the world when first listening to this track. As an adult, listening to this song speaks to the desire to never settle for anyone who doesn't know exactly how to give you what you truly want — and deserve — in a relationship.

4. "Fighter" Teaches Us About Gaining Strength From Pain

The transition to adulthood can bring its own unique set of pangs. Sometimes relationships don't work out, people grow apart, jobs don't work out, and trust can be broken. Aguilera's pulsing track reminds us that every misstep and painful situation can lead to growth.

5. "Beautiful" Teaches Us All The Lessons...Ever

The unifying track deftly tackles a myriad of issues that can lead to self-doubt and low self-esteem. Aptly titled, "Beautiful" is a song that reminds us of the importance of self-love and kindness even during the darkest of times.

6. "Can't Hold Us Down" Is A Feminist Anthem

Aside from the addictive beats and melody — which are truly on fleek — this track successfully crushes double standards that continue to have a pernicious effect on society. Aguilera being the master that she is delivers feminist messages in the sassiest way possible. Love. It.

7. "I Turn To You" Teaches Us The Importance Of A Support System

As a teen, I would listen to this track and try — and fail — to hit the high note at the end of the bridge. As an adult, listening to this powerful ballad reminds us of the importance of having a support system to turn to. I, personally, turn to my roommate/awesome person in times of strife that involve dating fails, credit card bills, and general angst that comes with attempting to be a grownup.

8. "Ain't No Other Man" Teaches Us To Check Out More Jazz Bars

Rather than go to the same bar every Friday night, broaden your horizons with some jazz. This song teaches us that sometimes the best way to have a good time is to take things Back To Basics.

9. "Keeps Gettin' Better" Teaches Us To Be Ourselves

Whether you're a ray of sunshine one day, or a "super b**ch" the other — every part of you is something to be appreciated. This track keeps it as real as Aguilera, herself.